Tickle my Fancy

'Tickle my Fancy' is Erica Sklenars' graduation show at the Quay School of the Arts' Edith Gallery. Erica knows how to put on a great opening - great work, great guests and great pink-themed refreshments. She even had her own dedicated candy-floss maker.

Delaney Davidson at Stink Magnetic

Delaney put on a great show in Whanganui, hosted by his record label Stink Magnetic.

Earthhour Whanganui

The lights are off in our little flat we just moved into today - candle light only. And there are not a lot of lights on in houses in our street either. Maybe everyone has gone to bed early, or maybe everyone is doing their bit to raise awareness for the Vote Earth campaign.

the promised street art

Finally, the promised post of the finished work out at Rangiora St, Castlecliff (bottom images), plus some more pieces around town. The middle left work only had a very short lifespan due to it being on a council building. But it's a beautiful image and I'm glad I could record it for posterity.

Rebecca Swan at Te Manawa

I was lucky enough to get to a talk by Rebecca Swan about her 'Assume Nothing: Celebrating Gender Diversity' show at Te Manawa Gallery in Palmerston North. She has a very sensitive approach to her work and allows the character of her subjects to shine through.

one for the gardeners

I think that the people who tend the public gardens in Whanganui have a lot to be proud of. Everywhere you go there is something that brightens your day.

International Women's Day Celebration

I attended an evening at Ceramic organised by the Women's Network to celebrate International Women's Day. It was a lovely relaxed event with some great entertainment from writers, singers, actors and even a belly dancer. The next organised event is a dress-up tea party at the 'Ladies Rest Building' 75 Hill St, Whanganui on the 4 April.

Cracked Pepper Brunch

We went out for a celebratory brunch to the Cracked Pepper cafe. I ordered the Eggs Montreal (with smoked salmon) and a white chocolate mocha. Very decadent and delicious.

James Robinson's studio

The recent Tylee Cottage artist-in-residence James Robinson opened up his studio and had a slide and video show in the evening, plus performers - seen here is Dave Edwards from Wellington. There was a lot of canvas on the floor, in a semi-virginal state, and some large works on the walls which can soon be viewed at the Sarjeant Gallery, so i will leave you in suspense about those - it's going to be an interesting show.

Small Town: Whole World

'Small Town: Whole World' is currently on at Thermostat Gallery. Aimee Ratana has revisited Taumarunui where she grew up and my sister, Catherine Russ has revisited Masterton, where we used to live. This show has something for everyone, some beautiful images, some thought-provoking, others disturbing, and some fascinating anecdotes giving background to the photographs.

Father of the Pride

When I was in Wellington I was lucky enough to get shouted to the drag kings' show 'Father of the Pride' for my birthday. Seen here is Wetlife who did a great opening number. The troupe put on a very diverse and entertaining show - I love them.

Epilogue

A gorgeous show well worth a visit is 'Epilogue' by Ben Cauchi at McNamara Gallery in Whanganui. That's me between Ang's and Ben's feet.

Public art, Porirua

Out in the Square

It was a full-on windy Wellington day but the sun was shining and people were looking fabulous. I was helping out on a fundraising stall but took some time out to take in the entertainment.

bus trip

I love taking long distance bus trips. You get such a great view because you're seated higher than when in a car. This trip was between Whanganui and Wellington, via the bustling metropolis of Shannon.